What is the primary purpose of Patch Management?

The primary purpose of patch management is to update software to fix vulnerabilities promptly. Ensuring that software is regularly patched is critical for maintaining the security and stability of systems. Vulnerabilities can be exploited by attackers, leading to unauthorized access, data breaches, and system failures. By promptly applying patches, organizations can mitigate these risks and protect their environments against threats. This process not only involves deploying updates but also monitoring for available patches and assessing the impact of applying them.

While updating software to add new features, monitoring network traffic, and overhauling outdated systems are important aspects of IT management, they do not directly address the core goal of patch management, which is centered around security and vulnerability remediation. Hence, the focus on fixing vulnerabilities promptly is what distinguishes patch management as a critical practice in maintaining operational integrity and safeguarding against threats.